Issue 012 | October 2017          

National Fossil Day Wednesday, October 11 marks the 2017 celebration of National Fossil Day.  The National Park Service sponsors this annual occurrence of fossil-related events and activities across the country.  The goal of National Fossil Day is "to highlight the scientific and educational value of paleontology and the importance of preserving fossils for future generations."  For a nice introduction to fossil and paleontology basics, see the Website's Frequently Asked Questions.

 
Dallas Paleontological Society (DPS)
Are you fascinated by fossils? Care to join other paleontology buffs who, in the words of the DPS Website "have fun", "learn stuff", "go cool places", "find interesting things" and "make new friends"?  The group is open to professionals and serious amateurs alike.
Huntin' Spots
Within a short drive of the Metroplex resides a notable fossil hunting site that offers free access to the public: Mineral Wells Fossil Park. At the park visitors enjoy opportunities to collect fossils from the Pennsylvania period.  
 
Fossil enthusiasts who want to search closer to home have a few options available within Dallas, such as the Mountain Creek Lake area and White Rock Lake. This White Rock Lake blog tells about the presence of fossils from the Cretaceous period. 
 The Elephant in the Room
Did you know that mammoths once roamed in Waco?  While the mammoth is not an actual ancestor of the elephant, they are related.  At the National Park System's Waco Mammoth Site  visitors can observe "in situ" fossil remains of the nation's only recorded discovery of a nursery herd of Columbian mammoths.
Access our Podcast!
We invite you to deepen your knowledge of the beautiful natural world that is all around us and to connect with passionate naturalists by listening to our bi-weekly podcast. All in the spirit of lifelong learning!
 
Featured Books 
Extinction and evolution : what fossils reveal about the history of life
by Niles Eldredge

Chronicles the work and discoveries of paleontologist Niles Eldredge, tracing the history of life through the lense of paleontology, geology, ecology, anthropology, biology, zoology, mammalogy, herpetology, entomology, and botany
The illustrated handbook of fossils : a practical directory and identification aid to more than 300 plant and animal fossils
by Steve Parker

A detailed photographic guide to recognizing plant and animal fossils profiles more than 300 specimens and includes examples from all around the world.
The legacy of the Mastodon : the golden age of fossils in America
by Keith Stewart Thomson

Presents a history of fossil discovery in the West during the eighteenth- and nineteenth centuries, discussing key figures in the development of the science of paleontology, connections between fossil studies in Europe and America, and the impact on America's developing national identity
The story of life in 25 fossils : tales of intrepid fossil hunters and the wonders of evolution
by Donald R. Prothero

Best-selling paleontology author Donald R. Prothero describes twenty-five famous, beautifully preserved fossils in a gripping scientific history of life on Earth. Recounting the adventures behind the discovery of these objects and fully interpreting their significance within the larger fossil record, Prothero creates a riveting history of life on our planet.
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